In a text-savvy culture, South Africans don’t phone their close friends and family anymore .

Texting is the norm and it has basically taken on a language of its own with symbols and emojis. But like most languages things often get lost in translation. Even though emoticons and abbreviations make conversations quick, easy and fun they’re not always as effective because recipients misinterpret the symbols.

Heart eyes, thumbs up, yellow hearts, what does it all mean!?

The idea in each script was to highlight everyday conversations to show our audience how confusing texting can be, especially when it comes to emojis and how easily they get misinterpreted. Things get lost in “textlation”, so avoid the confusion and awkward moments all together by simply making a phone call.

60’’

Pregnancy scare

VO: It all started with some emojis from Phumi to boyfriend Anathi, thanking him for treating her to dinner.

(ping sound)

VO: She starts off, a little embarrassed by how much she ate: Cringe emoji, green face, full belly emoji.

VO: Oh no! Anathi panics, Phumi did seem super hungry. She’s pregnant! He swiftly replies: Wide-eyes, exploding head emoji.

VO: No need to overreact Phumi thinks, she doesn’t eat like that all the time. He should chill out. She responds: Angry red face, double snowflake emoji.

VO: Hot, cold, hot cold - her hormones are all over the place! Anathi replies: Doctor emoji, question mark.

VO: Doctor? There’s nothing wrong with a healthy appetite. She replies: disappointed face, good night emoji.

VO: And so, while Phumi and her full belly prep for a good night’s sleep, Anathi prepares for sleepless nights in 9 months’ time.

VO: Things get lost in textlation. Make a phone call instead. Dial *147# and buy voicebundles from R29.

Cell C. Connect your way.

T’s&C’s apply.